Joshua Bonnett ('13) | English

Phoenix, Arizona

Why did you decide to come to ACU?

As cliché as this sounds, it was really a God thing. I had always planned on going to school in California, so that I could pursue music and become a signed recording artist. However, during my senior year of high school, the Lord touched my life in a way that made me want to live for him. I decided to apply to ACU, which I had learned about from a friend. I thought it would be good, being new in the faith, to attend a Christian university and be surrounded by a strong community of believers. ACU accepted me, thankfully, because it was the only school in Texas that I finished the complete application process for. I guess God worked everything out for my good.

Biggest surprise about ACU: The diversity of the student body.

How has ACU prepared you academically for your future?

The faculty and staff at ACU are incredible. They genuinely care about their students, not only academically, but socially and spiritually as well. My professors have challenged me to be a better student, and a better person overall. They have told me things that I didn't want to hear, but needed to hear, and that has allowed me to grow and mature in many ways throughout college. Some of my favorite professors are Dr. Steven Moore, Dr. Cole Bennett, Dr. Jerry Taylor, Dr. Nancy Shankle, Randy Harris, Bob Strader, Dr. William Carroll, and the late Ms. Vickie Smith.

How has your experience at ACU impacted you?

I have gotten the privilege to be involved with many things at ACU. My freshman year I was a part of a drama ministry; sophomore year I was an RA; junior and senior year I helped lead a life group; I’ve played intramurals, led devotionals, performed with a music group, volunteered on campus and in Abilene, and more. All of these experiences have shaped me into the person I am today and have allowed me to grow as a man and as a Christian. These past four years haven't been the easy in the least, but every experience, good and bad, has strengthened me and built me up in some shape or form.

What have you gained through your involvement with LYNAY?

LYNAY has been an amazing place for me to experience the true meaning of diversity and community. All the different cultures and backgrounds represented in LYNAY make it a place of abundant opportunity. Opportunities to learn about and be exposed to other cultures, get out of my comfort zone, and get connected with many different people from all over the world. Also, Dr. McCaleb and Lea are like another set of parents, because they always make sure I am doing well, and when they notice something in me, whether positive or negative, they do not hesitate to call it out in me and offer wisdom and encouragement. Through LYNAY, I have gained a great sense of leadership, discipline, and drive.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

Hopefully and prayerfully, I will be joining Teach for America next fall, teaching high school level English. If I don’t end up getting accepted into the program, I plan on pursuing grad school and working. I also plan on continuing to pursue my passion of music, using it as a form of ministry to reach all ages.

You might also like to know: I just released a free album. It’s on noisetrade.com/poeticrise/amplified-mind.

Advice to incoming students: Always find your identity and security in the Lord. This will help you enjoy your college career to the fullest because you will be confident in who God made you to be, and use the gifts he has given you to glorify him.